GMC Yukon Hybrid

Casey Williams, www.car-data.com

Imagine a Toyota Prius crawling over rocks and slogging through mud. A friend owns one, butadmitted he drove his Toyota Tundra 4×4 to work when 12′ of snow fell. I said, ‘A real man wouldhave driven his Prius.’ To which he replied, ‘I tried, but couldn’t get it out of the driveway.’ AGMC Yukon Hybrid would have made it just fine ‘ without the need for a Tundra-in-reserve.

Like every other GMC Yukon, the Hybrid is large, comfortable, trailer-ready, and loaded to theroofline with a full entourage of luxuries. As a 4×4, it can do almost anything its full-gasolinedbrethren can do. It just does it with much less fuel running through its injectors. In fact, itsin-town fuel economy is comparable to a Toyota Camry!

Few things would clue you into its electrified underpinnings from the exterior. Yukon Hybridshave a front facia that more closely hugs the ground for airflow, lighter alloy wheels, re-shapedrear window, and low-resistance tires. To get the most out of every gallon of gas, the exterior wasrefined to eliminate drag and friction wherever possible. HYBRID graphics on the lower bodysides,as well as GM’s ‘green H’ logos, remove any doubt that this is no typical Yukon.

From inside, you would be challenged to tell the difference. Heated leather seats, woodgraindash panels, XM Satellite Radio, Bose audio, and automatic climate control are all available forthe asking. Power-adjustable pedals, navigation, and fold down rear seats provide comfort andconvenience. Select the $1,295 rear seat entertainment system and climate control knobs to keep thekids happy.

Suspension and steering feel tighter, and acceleration is more effortless with high electrictorque off the line and a variable-displacement 6.0-litre V8 pumping out 332-HP at speed. Anelectrically-variable transmission, with four fixed gears, has two modes for optimizing fueleconomy or for towing up to 6,200 lbs. During low speed driving, the battery pack pitches in tosave fuel while regenerative brakes replenish energy while decelerating. As a result of all thissophistication, two-wheel-drive models achieve 21/22-MPG city/hwy while our 4×4 test model posts20/20-MPG.

A full-size SUV that can carry seven passengers while towing a boat will never challenge aToyota Prius for fuel economy honors, but a Prius can’t even get out of its own driveway when deepsnow falls. Real men drive GMC Yukon Hybrids.

Mercury Milan Hybird

Casey Williams, www.car-data.com

Three of my favorite mid-size cars are the Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Lincoln MKZ that areall based on the excellent Mazda6 architecture. The same platform spawned the Ford Edge and LincolnMKX crossovers. What they lack in brute power and cavernous interiors, they make up for withrefined handling, rock solid body structures, and enduring quality. You sense their Japaneseheritage, no doubt. However, they also possess a certain style that can only come from America. Newfor 2010 are enhanced styling and a class-leading hybrid powertrain that will be shared with theFusion.

Said Derrick Kuzak, Ford V.P. for Global Product Development, ‘With the new Ford Fusion andMercury Milan hybrids, we are now able to offer even better range of travel on battery power at agreater speed, thanks to a more efficient, seamless transition between the battery-powered motorand gasoline-driven engine. These new hybrids will exceed expectations on all fronts ‘ fuelefficiency, comfort, convenience, and drivability.’

The Milan Hybrid is powered by a version of the Ford Escape Hybrid’s 2.5-litre four-cylinderAtkinson cycle engine, continuously variable transmission, and nickel-metal hydride batteries.Regenerative brakes and a more powerful motor allow the Milan Hybrid to drive up to 47 MPH onelectricity alone, limiting gas consumption during city driving. A cool LCD screen next to thespeedometer ‘grows leaves’ or takes them away to creatively show drivers how they are using energy.Driven with soft loafers, range can touch 700 miles while beating the similar-sized Toyota CamryHybrid by 8 MPG in the city and 2 MPG on the highway. Ford just announced that the Milan has beencertified for 41-MPG in city driving. EasyFuel’ capless technology makes it even easier to fill upwhen you finally do have to visit a gas station.

Mercury also installed some advanced technology inside the car. Sync’, developed with Microsoft,allows passengers to voice-activate the navigation and audio systems. Bluetooth connectivity letsthem make hands free calls from via their cell phone. Blind spot sensors alert drivers when cars orpedestrians are present while a backing camera reveals objects behind the vehicle. All of thesefeatures add up to a mid-size entry-luxury car that gives owners a technological edge underneathand behind a beautiful skin.

The Milan was already a good-looking car with its satin silver waterfall grille, Europeanprofile, trapezoidal taillamps, and handsome alloy wheels. For 2010, front clips were freshenedwith a larger and bolder chrome grille, chrome chin spoiler, and small round foglamps. The car alsogets new wheels, spoiler, and taillamps, but most of the body shell remains unchanged ‘ for thegood. The total look comes off as ‘working girl elegant’.

Interiors were updated with new-age Ford buttons and dials, available touch-screen controls forthe navigation/climate/audio systems, thicker steering wheel, and digital dashboard with largecenter analog speedometer. Details like the seats and gear selector were enhanced with Frenchstitching to emulate the Milan’s upscale cousins at Lincoln. Hybrid models have a cool energymonitor function in the touch screen that shows what is being burned and replenished in real time.

I’ve driven Mercury Milans many times over the past several years and in all trim levels. Theyare always quiet and comfortable on the highway. The base 175-horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinderengine is powerful enough for most people, but speed demons will want to step up to the240-horsepower 3.0-litre V6. Hybrids are expected to bridge the gap in power while turning in SmartForTwo fuel economy.

What I like best about the Milan Hybrid is how stealthily it moves about. From all appearances,it is a stylish mid-luxury sedan with a Japanese soul. However, from its class-leadinghybrid-driven fuel economy to hands-free communications and navigation, as well as an LCD dashboard, it is as advanced as any car close to its price. Some people want a Prius to prove theirgreenness, but many others prefer the benefits wrapped in traditional attire. For those, the MilanHybrid promises to be an excellent choice.

Mercury Mariner Hybrid

Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman, www.car-data.com

We were intrigued during a visit to New York City by the large number of Ford Escape Hybridtaxis plying the streets of Manhattan.

Makes sense when you figure hybrids are at their best in slow stop and go traffic. The gasengine remains at rest much of the time. And a small SUV that will comfortably hold as manypassengers and as much luggage as a big Crown Vic while deriving as much as 10 more miles to thegallon is a smart move.

The window sticker markup over a standard gas engine vehicle is easily made up over the hundredsof thousands of miles cabbies drive their cars.

But you don’t have to be a New York cab driver to benefit from a small hybrid sport utility.Hybrid SUVs are family-friendly as well.

The Escape Hybrid is entering its fifth model year and it ‘ and its twin the Mercury Mariner ‘have been blessed with continual upgrades and improvements.

A restyled exterior and an upgraded interior came for the 2008 model year, and for 2009 thehybrid twins get more power while at the same time yielding slightly better gas mileage.

We spent a pleasant week in a 2009 Mercury Mariner Hybrid, intrigued by the increased horsepower’ now with a total output of 177 horses compared to 155 for 2008 ‘ especially when merging withheavy freeway traffic.

Of course, testing the limits of the available power is not the way to get the best gas mileage.We admit to a heavy foot. Fast starts are in our DNA. Quick takeoffs at the traffic light,especially on a 55-mph highway, are standard operating procedure. We don’t like to get nipped bythe guy next to us even if we are driving the most underpowered

sub- compact on the market.

That puts into perspective the 29 miles-to-the-gallon average we derived over 250 miles. Whenyou consider the way we drive, that’s surprisingly close to the Mariner’s posted fuel economy of 31highway/

34 city.

If you are in the market for a small crossover SUV, especially if your goal is to save at thepump, then you won’t do better than the Mariner or its siblings, the Ford Escape or Mazda Tributehybrids.

For the 2008 model year, the Mariner was restyled inside and out, the interior was made quieterand a full-range of safety features were added as standard equipment.

We will get to all that in a minute, but first the big news for 2009 is a new 2.5-liter4-cylinder engine. The non-hybrid gas engine model is now outfitted with a 171-horsepower 2.5-literengine mated to a six- speed automatic. That’s a big improvement from the previous 2.3-liter enginedeveloping 153 horsepower mated to a four-speed automatic.

The hybrid gets the same treatment getting a version of the 2.5-liter mated to a continuouslyvariable transmission. Ford says the electric motor and the gas engine together develop 177 useablehorsepower.

That takes the hybrid out of the leisurely performance category and elevates it to definitelyacceptable.

Let’s not take our eye off the prize ‘ you are considering a hybrid purchase to save dollars atthe pump, not to outrun your neighbor’s Mustang. But we agree it’s hard to live day-to-day withoutmodern freeway performance.

Well, we say the Mariner has had the goods. With 22 less useable horsepower in 2008, it wasmeasured at an acceptable 0-to-60 in 10.1 seconds. Our seat-of-the-pants test using a handheldstopwatch showed us the 2009 Mariner can accomplish the feat in around 9.5 seconds.

Case closed.

And here’s the kicker ‘ the 2009 model actually gets one more mile to the gallon in highwaydriving now rated at 31 mpg.

The Mariner drives as small as you would expect it would; stretching out a compact 175 incheswith a 103-inch wheelbase. While the turning circle is a longish 39 feet, the small Mercury isstill maneuverable in the mall parking lot.

Rear seating is comfortable for two people who will find very adequate legroom and ample headroom. And rear storage measures 29 cubic feet, very generous for a small SUV. With the second rowfolded, maximum cargo capacity on a flat surface is a decent 62 cubic feet.

The 2009 Mariner for the most part has a pleasing upscale, carryover interior. Stylists hadcreated a more Lincoln-like cockpit in their

2008 updating. Satin-aluminum and chrome accent the center stack and console. Chrome- ringedgauges, redesigned for 2008, are attractive.

We did not have the leather seat option, but we can report the cloth fabric is excellent.

The Mariner offers an impressive array of standard safety equipment including canopy side aircurtains, side-impact air bags, ABS, tire pressure monitor system, and Ford’s AdvanceTrac anti-skidsystem.

Factor in the Mariner’s top crash ratings from the National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Mercury has astrong selling point.

The Mariner has earned a top five stars from NHTSA for both front and rear-seat passengers inside-impact crash tests when equipped with the now-standard curtain airbags and the second highestrating from IIHS in offset frontal impact tests.

If we’ve sold you on the Mariner hybrid, hold your horses. We recommend that you get yourcalculator out and crunch the following numbers.

The base price of a front-wheel drive hybrid is about $30,000. The base price of a standard FWD4-cylinder Mariner is about $23,000. So we are looking at a $7,000 difference. The 4-cylinder’s gasmileage is rated at 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

The government has done the math for us. Based on 15,000 miles a year at $3 a gallon thestandard 4-cylinder will use $1,957 in fuel, the hybrid fuel cost is $1,408. That’s a savings of$549 a year. At that rate, it would take nearly 13 years to recover the purchase price. At $2.00per gallon it takes longer; at $4.00 a gallon you make it up quicker. Our guess is that over thelong haul prices will be going up.

In either case you shouldn’t chose a hybrid just for the sake of saving fuel. There are betterand more altruistic reasons for making the decision of buying a hybrid.

Both models come similarly equipped. And there’s an income tax credit for the Mariner that needsto be figured into the equation. Check the IRS Web site for up-to-date information. It will helpoff-set some of the pain.

Our test car came with the $1,995 navigation option, which also included a very good 320-wattsound system and satellite radio. That brought the bottom line to $32,470.

The 2009 Mariner is a good small SUV choice whether in standard 4- cylinder gas engine guise oras a hybrid. If you want to drive green, we recommend the hybrid. You will pay more at the outset,but you will enjoy fewer visits to the gas pumps. And your neighbors will think more highly of you.

2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid – Two-Mode Hybrid Made For The Road

Sandi Pedersen, www.car-data.com

The first Chrysler gas-electric vehicle is finally here. The 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybridfull-sized sport utility vehicle has arrived. The Aspen delivers 7 passenger seating, upscalefeatures and some of the best MPG numbers in its class. After taking a weekend trip from Houston toAustin I was thoroughly impressed with what this Sport Utility Vehicle had to offer.

What impressed me the most? Well let’s start with the fuel economy that Chrysler estimated theAspen HEV can achieve; 19 miles per gallon city and 20 miles per gallon on the highway, which afterfirst looking at the size of the Aspen, I thought no way this SUV can even come close to thoseestimates. However, after driving more then 300 miles of both city and highway miles I averaged 22miles per gallon which said to me that the EPA estimates a bit too conservative!

The next feature that I liked was the standard navigation system which gives the driver all theinformation that they need at basically the touch of the screen and when on a road trip in the bigstate of Texas this feature was a must have. Of course when out on a long road trip the rear cargospace also is important and the Aspen has plenty of seating; enough for 3 adults in the second rowand 2 more in the third. It also has 100 cubic feet of cargo space once both rows are folded flat.This came in real handy for bringing basically my whole kitchen with us so we could cook athanksgiving dinner at my son’s apartment!

To quote my husband, ‘this Aspen was one of the best large SUV’S I have been in and I reallylike the fact that when I need it’s 385 combined horsepower it is ready to roar. Plus, we could buya boat as it can tow 6,000 lbs and look good doing it.’ I think he was fantasizing there for amoment.

And I would have to agree and hope that if United States car manufacturers can turn around therecurrent financial problems, they would incorporate more Hybrid designs into their lines.

I have come to the realization that when I get into a vehicle for the first time, I immediatelylook at the cup holder options. Call me shallow or just an avid coffee drinker, who is seldomwithout a cup, but I found in talking to other people, women in particular, that this is a veryimportant aspect of how we feel about the vehicle.

On a scale of 1-10

Cup holders ‘ 9′ LOTS and LOTS and LOTS!

Ford Escape Hybrid

Casey Williams, www.car-data.com

With gas prices receding ever so slightly, you might be thinking about looking at big vehiclesagain. You could ‘ there are a lot of great ones out there. But, wouldn’t you rather think green,conserve fuel, and still have all of the space and comfort you want? Add in the new Limited package, capless fuel filling, and Microsoft Sync, the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid may be the way to go.

The Escape Hybrid came just as I was heading out for a weekend of fun with a fraternity brother,his wife, and kids. I had about a two-hour Interstate run ahead of me. Over the years, I’ve drivenmany Escapes and imagined the revised ’09 Hybrid would be a great traveling companion. It was.

Unlike a lot of crossovers, the Escape is proud enough of its SUV heritage to forgo swoopingcurves for an upright wagon profile that looks tough without being trite. A large chrome grillethat extends from the bumper leads into a domed hood, strong wheelarches, and clean bodylines. Ifyou look closely at the rear side windows, you can see a small air opening to help cool the batterypack. Low rolling resistance tires shod handsome 16′ aluminum wheels for good handling, acomfortable ride, and improved fuel economy. Subtle green logos on the front doors and rear hatchclue you in that this is not a normal Escape.

It is hard to remember now, but Ford was near last in introducing a compact SUV. Honda andToyota, with the CR-V and RAV4, beat Escape to market by a generation. Ford wisely built on thesuccess it had with the Explorer and Expedition when it styled and equipped its smallest off-roader. Early models handled well, but were noisy, unrefined, and not quite up to standards set by thebig SUVs or even the Focus compact.

Escapes have come a long way. They’re still great compacts, but are so refined and well equippedthat they make you wonder who needs more in everyday life. Interiors like our Hybrid Limited’s arehandsome with their blue-lit gauges, piano black finish on the center console and control surrounds, standard audio system with 6-disc changer, chrome door handles, ambient lighting, leather-wrappedsteering wheel, heated leather seats, cargo cover, and one-touch power glass moonroof. Automaticclimate control works without thought to keep you at your desired temperature. To lower theEscape’s overall CO2 emissions, seats are made from soy-based foam instead of petroleum ‘basedmaterials; fabrics are woven from 100% recycled materials. Safety is enhanced by side curtainairbags that deploy during rollovers.

Like the stylish new Lincoln MKS, the Escape can connect with the world while on the go. Thecoolest available system is SYNC, co-developed with Microsoft. By pressing a button on the steeringwheel, drivers can command the audio and navigation systems. Hungry? Just say so and SYNC conjuresup local restaurants and can route you to them. Concerned about the weather? SYNC provides afive-day forecast and real time satellite map of your vicinity. Bluetooth connectivity allowshands-free telephone calls, Sirius Satellite Radio brings Elvis and CNN from beyond, and iPODs canconnect to the car with an USB port so you can control your music from the in-car controls. And, ifyou need to charge your laptop, hybrids include a household 110V plug in the front console.

Driving at night to see my friends, I came upon a tour bus lounging in the left lane. With athought and press of my right foot, 177 ponies and hordes of electrons came online and stepped tothe road through Escape’s electronic all-wheel drive system. AdvanceTrac stability control andfour-wheel ABS stood by in case I over-drove my abilities.

Escape Hybrids are powered by Ford’s Duratec 16-valve, 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle four-cylinderengine, electric motor, continuously-variable transmission, and batteries. Regenerative brakes andthe gas engine recharge the batteries, which allow the Escape to hum through traffic withoutconsuming fossils. It’s a little eerie when the engine shuts down at stoplights or when creepingthrough parking lots, but fuel economy ratings of 34/31-MPG city/highway for front-drive models and29/27-MPG for AWD are easy to understand. In real-world driving, cruising near 80 mph and throughcity traffic, I exceeded those ratings.

Ford may categorize the Escape as an SUV, but it is a car-based crossover that handles like asportier station wagon while keeping everybody up and out of snow, mud, and rough terrain.Especially when equipped with electronic all-wheel-drive, the Escape can actually take you to seethe picturesque scenes Ford puts in its ads while keeping you well connected and entertained nomatter where you tread. Carrying economy car fuel economy ratings, and a full load of technologythat causes luxury makers to tremble, the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid syncs green from trail todriveway.

Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

Kelly Foss, www.car-data.com

The Cadillac Escalade has become the class leader of luxury full size SUV’s. This remains quitean accomplishment considering the competition. As of late, with unpredictable fuel prices, largeSUV’s have lost some of their luster in the public eye. Notwithstanding, there remains a sizeablemarket that either needs or really wants such machines and General Motors has done their part tomake the experience more palatable.

For several years GM has been developing what it calls a 2 Mode Hybrid drive. This technology issimilar to the combined gas and electric propulsion that we’ve seen in other hybrids but GM hasfocused on bigger vehicles where larger gains in fuel economy can be harvested. This year, hybridswill be available on all the large SUV’s and pickup trucks that GM produces.

The Escalade is a gorgeous machine. It delivers all the accoutrements that you expect from anexpensive luxury vehicle. Its forte is the way that it combines luxury and large SUV performance inone offering. The hybrid version of the Escalade takes the package one step further. With nocompromise in luxury and while maintaining similar levels of performance, the Escalade Hybrid nowadds dramatically increased fuel economy and reduced vehicle emissions.

Hybrids operate by adding the power of high-torque electric motors to the traditional gas engine. The vehicle carries a 300 volt rechargeable battery pack on board and the electric motor takepower from the battery and helps propel the vehicle. Electricity is generated while the vehicle ismoving and braking. The more you can use the electric motor, the less you need the gas engine whichreduces fuel consumption and emissions. The hybrid version of the Escalade is eerily quiet. Itdrives just like any other Escalade meaning it starts and you put it in gear and step on the gas togo and the brake to stop. Everything else seamlessly goes on in the background.

A typical gas version of the Escalade has an EPA rating of 12 city and 19 highway miles pergallon of fuel economy. The Escalade Hybrid gets 20 city and 21 highway. Note that city fueleconomy increases in the city by over 60% and highway by 10%, plus emission are decreased with theHybrid model.

The Escalade Hybrid presents an interesting alternative to the full size luxury SUV market.

Cadillac Escalade Hybrid – Cadillac’s Electric Flagship

By Casey Williams, www.car-data.com

When Mercedes-Benz or Lexus dish out helpings of their latest technology, they serve it up intheir flagship sedans. Although a full-size SUV happens to be the flagship of Cadillac, GM’spremiere division still gives it the best dish. As the S-Class and LS are two of the mosttechnologically advanced vehicles on earth, so is the 2009 Cadillac Escalade.Hybrid.

It’s safe to say the world’s impression of Cadillac has changed dramatically over the pastdecade. What I think is great is how designers and engineers kept the comfort and style for whichCadillac is famous, but imbued the driving experience with agility and technology that shouldastonish the top German and Japanese makes. The Escalade Hybrid is from a new generation of GMSUVs that are both capable and efficient.

Providing the basis for a whoosh of power is a 6.0-litre V8 engine that produces 332 horsepower.To conserve fuel, the engine can shut off four cylinders when full power is not required. Uponcoming to a stop, the engine automatically shuts off and starts again while initially moving awayon electricity. With the hybrid system in play, the SUV can run on four cylinders more often,saving the maximum amount of fuel. All of this is a very smart strategy to save gas whereverpossible.

To make more savings a reality, GM partnered with Chrysler, BMW, and Mercedes to develop a2-Mode Hybrid system (similar to that employed on the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen Hybrids, aswell as GM’s own full-size hybrids). Around town and at low speeds, the Escalade acts much like aToyota Prius, making the most of a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack, electricallyvariable transmission (EVT), and regenerative brakes (turn momentum into battery charge) to movethe vehicle with little gasoline. When more power is needed, like when towing up to 5,700 lbs, thecomputer optimizes the electric system and gas engine for the best performance. In town, theEscalade Hybrid’s fuel economy is comparable to a mid-size sedan, hitting 21/22-MPG city/highway.

It sounds like a lot of complexity to achieve higher gas mileage, but as with the Toyota Prius,everything works so smoothly that the only feeling drivers have is one of elation. After startingthe SUV, and stepping on the throttle, one hears a slight whir as the big wagon glides quietly away. All Escalades run smoothly, but there is something even more refined and modernly elegant aboutthe Hybrid. Ask for more power at cruise and you hear a slight whine, not unlike a faintsupercharger, as the electric system adds power. StabiliTrak electronic stability programming andfour-wheel anti-lock brakes ensure the SUV will go in its intended direction.

Interior accommodations are as sumptuous as in any Escalade. The cabin is available with Ebonyor Cashmere Nuance leather seats that are heated, cooled, and power adjusted in more directionsthan a pigeon poops.

Gauges feature white needles with blue light inlays – all glowing in white LED backlighting.Leather-covered door trim and center console, woodgrain trim, power running boards, and a powerrear liftgate add luxury, as do automatic climate control, three rows of seating, and a stellarBose audio system with XM Satellite Radio.

Only badges betray the fact that the Escalade is a hybrid, but its grille, taillamps, and chromedetailing make it clear that it is from the current generation of Cadillacs. As with the CTS andSTS, styling was based on the Sixteen Concept Car from 2003 and features stacked headlamps, razorthin taillamps (behind wide lenses), chrome fender vents, and a smooth flowing shape. Chrome issparingly applied by traditional Cadillac standards.

Said Cadillac general manager, Jim Taylor, “Escalade, already the sales and style leader amonglarge luxury SUVs, now adds the desirability of a fuel-saving, technically advanced hybrid system.No other manufacturer offers a hybrid that can seat eight luxuriously while simultaneously carryingor trailering lots of cargo comfortably. And no hybrid delivers the dramatic presence that issynonymous with Escalade.”

On all fronts, Cadillac is determined to meet and beat the world’s top automakers. Across theAtlantic and Pacific, drivers may know Cadillac for its land yachts, but the Escalade Hybrid takesit to the world’s flagships – all while giving Americans the comfort and capability they want.

This is no Prius. And, that is a very fine thing.

2009 GMC Yukon Hybrid

By Chris Jackson www.car-data.com

If there is one thing to say about the GMC Yukon Hybrid, it’s that this truck isn’t shy aboutbeing “green.” With gas prices on the rise and conspicuous consumption a serious social faux pas,the “HYBRID” stickers and badges that cover just about every square inch of this truck seem to beboth proud and defensive. “Please don’t slash my tires!” the Yukon Hybrid’s garish decals beg. “Imay be a great big truck, but I’m a hybrid, too!”

All kidding aside, it’s good to finally see a two-mode hybrid system applied to the vehiclesthat need the fuel economy boost the most:full-size SUVs. The new Yukon Hybrid features a two-modeelectric- assist system that provides additional power at both low and high speeds. Like theToyota Prius, it can also run on full-electric mode up to thirty miles per hour, and the enginewill run on eight, four or no cylinders depending on demand. All of that fuel-saving technology isapplied to a vehicle that sacrifices little of the conventional Yukon’s drivability or utility.

Standard power is provided by a 6.0 liter V8, hooked up to GM’s Electrically VariableTransmission and a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS). The ESS enables theYukon to shut the gasoline engine down completely when the vehicle is at a stop, and to run onelectric power at low speeds. The big V8 is also equipped with GM’s Active Fuel Management

(AFM) system which shuts down cylinders when they’re not needed, and thanks to the ESS theYukon’s V8 can operate in four-cylinder mode for longer periods of time.

Does the combination work? Two-wheel drive Yukon Hybrids can get 21mpg in the city, a decentfigure for any vehicle. Opt for the available four-wheel drive, and it goes down to 20, but that’sstill respectable for a big SUV.

Freeway fuel economy increases over the conventional gasoline version are in the 25- to 30%range. Like many modern hybrids, the Yukon’s operation is seamless. A sensitive driver will beable to feel the engine cycling on and off at low speeds, but it doesn’t affect the power deliveryat all. Other than a tendency to be preternaturally quiet, the Yukon doesn’t betray its fancydrivetrain.

Of course, the exterior makes up for that. My tester featured no less than six decals, badgesand stickers proclaiming it to be a HYBRID. While probably not a part of the standard Yukon Hybridpackage, it seemed a bit like overkill. A fancy, high-tech green badge and discreet “hybrid”badges on the fenders suffice nicely.

Sharper eyes will notice aerodynamic tweaks that make the Yukon a bit slipperier on the freeway,including a lower front air dam and specially sculpted running boards. Apart from those details,the boxy and handsome Yukon is the same as its conventional siblings.

Interior differences are subtle; at a glance, the cabin is the same spacious, comfortable Yukonenvironment that we know and love. The large console is ready to swallow small items, the dashnicely laid out and trimmed with luxury-car attention to detail. The Yukon Hybrid’s front seatsare slightly thinner, to reduce overall mass, and this makes for a slight improvement in second-rowknee room.

Most obvious is the silent ride; many passengers remarked that the Yukon was incredibly quiet,even when the V8 engine was running. Low rolling-resistance tires and a specially tuned exhaustare a big part

of the reason the Yukon is so calm on the freeway. The Yukon Hybrid

is also available with all of the comforts of home that make the standard Yukon a great placefor traveling; a navigation system, heated mirrors, XM satellite radio and rear view camera arestandard, and a rear-seat entertainment system is available.

This big SUV is impressively easy to drive; GMC has done a fantastic job of making the big SUV”drive small.” The Yukon uses an independent coil-over shock suspension up front and a five-linkcoil- sprung rear that give the Yukon a confident and stable feeling on the road. The fullyelectric power steering is responsive and light, and around town this 5800-lb vehicle never feelsponderous.

The “green” badge and family-friendly road manners haven’t affected the Yukon’s truck abilitiesin the least. With a trailer out back, the Yukon Hybrid doesn’t act any different than any otherYukon, and it’ll tow up to 6000 pounds.

If there’s a downside to the Yukon Hybrid, it’s just that modifier, “for a big SUV.” Its 20mpgfuel economy is good.for a big SUV. In most other automotive arenas, 20 mpg is nothing to writehome about.

And considering the Yukon Hybrid’s $52,855 starting price, the significant premium over theconventional models isn’t quite justified by the fuel economy boost. That said, for buyers whoneed a real truck and want to improve their efficiency a bit, the Yukon Hybrid offers the best ofboth worlds.

Specifications:
All specs are for the 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid 4×4.
Length: 202.0 in.
Width: 79.0 in.
Height: 77.0 in.
Wheelbase: 116.0 in.
Curb weight: Mini Cooper5 lb.
Cargo space: 108.9 cu.ft. (all seats folded); 16.9 cu.ft. (all seats up)
Towing capacity;6000 lb.

Base price: $52,855
Engine: 6.0 liter OHV V8
Drivetrain: Two-mode continuouselectric ratio hybrid transmission with four fixed gears, four-wheel drive
Horsepower: 332 @5100
Torque: 367 @ 4100
Fuel capacity: 24.5 gal.
Est. mileage: 20/20

2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid – One of my “favorite” things!

By Sandi Pedersen www.car-data.com

My son and I have very different views on cars. Could have something to do with the 23 year agedifference! He said he would never buy a hybrid for fear of “what happens when the battery givesout?” I on the other hand, am thoroughly convinced that the next vehicle I buy will be a hybrid asI am not particularly worried about the batteries.

Although the Camry has had very subtle changes this calendar year, I still really enjoy thisdependable, well built, extremely comfortable car and have nothing but good to say about it. When Ilast drove a 2007 Camry Hybrid it attracted lots of attention as it was a relatively “new”phenomenon. I am so pleased to see how far we’ve come in this nation to not only accept but demandand embrace more eco-friendly, fuel saving cars. With EPA Fuel Economy Estimates coming in at 33miles per gallon city and 34 miles per gallon highway I was pleased that my test vehicle averaged37.4 miles per gallon. Halleluiah!!!!! I also liked watching the cool display on the speedometertelling me how much gas I was actually saving when the vehicle was running mostly on battery power.

Cargo space was about the only fault I could find but I will gladly give up cargo space forbattery space. I took the Camry on a long weekend getaway and quickly filled up the trunk with onesuitcase, a beach bag and some snacks. This car would be good for a small grocery run but I don’trecommend having anyone taking up back seat space if you are stocking up on groceries for a monthor two. You will definitely need the back seat room which is extremely adequate, for grocery bagsand even adults.

Another great thing I want to point out is that this car is an AT-PZEV vehicle. This is acertification given to just a handful of vehicles and stands for Advanced Technology Partial ZeroEmissions Vehicle. What all that means is that this car gives off 70 percent less smog-formingemissions than the average car. This also means that there are almost no fuel leaks or fuel vaporsescaping from the fuel system. In my opinion, this is where we can really do some good for futuregenerations by helping to clean up the air that they breathe.

I’m sure by now it’s clear that I really like this car however, I urge anyone looking to buy anew vehicle to keep these advancements in mind and become a solution to some major earth problemsrather than a contributor.

Review: 2009 Dodge Durango – Hybrid Hemi

By Casey Williams www.car-data.com

Like Donald Trump talking about green energy, the Dodge Durango Hybrid, with a HEMI V8, puts asmiley face on conspicuous consumption. More accurately, the Durango Hybrid may be more like TheDonald embracing a Toyota Prius, loaded to the A-pillars with a full load of electronic amazement.Like the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, with which the Durango shares its hybrid system, this large SUVmoves from the target of environmentalists to downright responsibility.

The Durango’s hybrid system was developed in partnership between General Motors, BMW, Mercedes,and Chrysler (the later two when they were still hitched as parts of DaimlerChrysler). It iscalled a “two-mode” hybrid because it automatically optimizes for either towing or economy,depending on what the driver demands. The system uses an electric continuously variabletransmission with four fixed gear ratios for efficiency and high power modes. Like most hybrids,the Durango recaptures energy through regenerative braking. It can run on full electric power,full engine power, or any combination of the two for optimal performance.

The more familiar part of the power equation comes from a 5.7-litre HEMI V8 engine with variabledisplacement technology that allows it to run on four cylinders during low power cruising toconserve fuel. Since the electrical system also supplies power to the drivetrain, the HEMI is ableto remain in four-cylinder mode more often, saving even more fuel. Dodge claims a 40% improvementin fuel economy during city driving and 25% improvement overall.

Combined horsepower for the V8 and electric system is rated 385 – enough to tow up to 6,000 lbs.

Those numbers do not sound like a typical hybrid because the Dodge Durango is not. Like otherDurangos, the Hybrid comes loaded with three rows of seats – enough to carry eight passengers.Wood-accented door panels and center dashboard, air conditioning, LED reading lamps, MyGIGEntertainment System (contains an on-board hard drive to store music and photos), navigation, floorconsole, and rear power outlet are all standard. Upscale greenies will also appreciate eight-waypower leather seats, heated front buckets, and vehicle information center.

Exterior styling looks Ram tough with a chrome cross-hair grille flanked by huge halogen lamps,tanklike flanks, high beltline, and “afterburner” tail lamps. Nothing but a couple of logos tellsyou this is a high-tech mechanical and electrical wonder beneath the tough skin.

For a big SUV, the Durango is well behaved on- and off-road. A stiff hydro-formed frame resistsflexing and forms a solid foundation for rack and pinion steering, an independent front suspension,and solid rear axle with coil springs. A tight turning radius of 37.5 ft. makes maneuvering inparking garages and tight trails equally brief. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes, Electronic StabilityProgram, Electronic Roll Mitigation, and Trailer Sway Control give the chassis a helping hand tokeep the big wagon on the straight and narrow. Rear parking sensors, tire pressure monitoring, andan available rear back-up camera keep you out of the barriers.

Three-row side-curtain airbags treat everybody equally.

To bring the two-mode hybrids to market quickly and with maximum cooperation, the partnercompanies set up a Hybrid Development Center in Troy, MI. That’s where they developed the electricmotors, transmission, batteries, electronics, wiring, and engine control modules that make thismagic possible. The center was fully responsible for system integration and project management.

According to Frank Klegon, Executive V.P. of Product Development at Chrysler, “The new 2009Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles will offer our customers the sought-afterblend of performance, utility, capability and vastly improved fuel economy – all in one package.”

Everybody knows Toyota and Honda were the first to market with hybrids.

Being Toyota and Honda, they went after the compact and mid-size segments.

While the Americans and Germans are bringing hot smaller hybrids in the next couple of years,they spent their energy giving drivers exactly what they really want – big, powerful, and capableSUVs that don’t break the bank.

Environmentalists may cry foul, however owners will love them. The Durango Hybrid may not get50-MPG, but achieving low-20s is an equal feat – especially while preserving the ability to towheavy trailers. Competitors include the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid, GMC Yukon Hybrid, and Mercedes GLDiesel.

« Previous Page — Next Page »